Disclosure Scotland’s paper applications fall to less than one per cent of all applications received
New figures released by Disclosure Scotland show that paper applications accounted for less than 1% of all applications received during the first 6 months of 2026 to 2027, continuing the long-term reduction in the use of paper applications.
Between April and September 2026, Disclosure Scotland received more than 322,000 applications. Of these, fewer than 2,000 were submitted using the paper route, as shown in figure 1.
Figure 1: Number and percentage of paper applications received by financial year and year-to-date, April 2021 to September 2026
In April 2021, paper applications accounted for 21.7% of all applications received that month. By September 2026, that figure had fallen to just 0.6% of all applications received in that month.
Figures show that paper applications are now rarely required, although offline routes remain important for applicants who cannot access or use the standard digital process.
Offline applications are generally used only in exceptional circumstances. Examples include applicants who do not have access to suitable technology, people with limited digital confidence, those unable to use a ScotAccount, or individuals experiencing technical difficulties. Some organisations also rely on offline applications for specific groups, such as applicants who are under 16 and cannot use ScotAccount.
By using data to understand how our services are used, we can continue to improve the customer experience while maintaining accessible options for those who need additional support. You can read more on Disclosure Scotland’s performance on their website.